Tractor accident results in fatality

The driver of this tractor was trapped underneath and pronounced deceased after being removed.

Posted
6/15/09

CLAYTON TOWNSHIP — A tractor accident on the corner of Bishop and Bourgeouis roads in Clayton Township Monday claimed the life of the tractor’s driver – Leonard Papiernik, 71, of Whittemore.

According to a press release from the Arenac County Sheriff’s Office, a 911 call was received at approximately 3 p.m., reporting the incident. The release says Papiernik was driving a John Deere tractor, owned by Glenn Berry Farm, which left the roadway, struck a tree and flipped over, pinning Papiernik underneath. He was pronounced dead at the scene after being removed from under the vehicle by the Sterling Area Fire Department, officers from the sheriff’s office and Arenac County Mobile Medical Response.

Sheriff James Mosciski said the accident is being investigated to attempt to find a reason why the tractor went off the roadway.

“We’re still looking into it,” he said. “We don’t think there was any equipment malfunction.”